Art installation on violence against women held

SHILLONG: An art installation on “Violence against Women” was organized by North East Network (NEN), a women’s rights organization here on Thursday.
The event was organised to observe the International Human Rights Day which is celebrated globally on December 10 and to sensitize people on gender based violence.
Female artist, Careen J. Langstieh in her installation exhibited the dual role of a man and a woman. The artist portrayed this role by using materials like the traditional umbrella (knup) which symbolizes shelter, a fireplace in the middle, with monoliths consisting of the upright stone (mawshynrang), dolmen (mawkynthei) etc.
Commenting on her art, she said, “It depicts the equal role and responsibility of both husband and wife.”
Joy Syiem, programme manager, NEN Shillong while speaking on the theme said that there is a lot of fight for power in the Khasi matrilineal society where patriarchy has been infused.
“Gender based violence is very much prevalent in the society… women are not allowed at the Dorbar Shnong, even the Village Administration Bill is gender biased,” Syiem added.
Syiem also urged women facing violence to voice their concern as there are forums that will help them.